Barefoot trimming is an important part of maintaining proper hoof health and long-term soundness. The trimming process includes cleaning the sole, trimming the hoof wall, and addressing the frog and bars to create a balanced, functional hoof. Using professional tools such as hoof nippers and a hoof knife, excess hoof growth and dead, chalky sole are carefully removed while preserving the live sole and frog for natural protection.

 

The objective is to maintain a balanced hoof wall, a shorter toe, and adequate heel support to promote comfort and performance.

 

Although barefoot horses may require less maintenance than shod horses, routine trimming is still essential and is typically recommended every 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the individual horse, workload, and seasonal conditions.

 

Regular trimming helps prevent imbalance, reduces the risk of chipping or cracking, and supports the horse’s overall health and movement.

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Hot shoeing provides a precise, custom fit that supports both performance and hoof health. This process involves heating the horseshoe to approximately 1300°F and briefly applying it to the hoof to create an exact match to the horse’s foot. The heated shoe seals the hoof wall, sanitizes the surface, and allows for more accurate shaping and balancing. Because the heat only contacts the insensitive outer keratin layer of the hoof, the process is safe and painless for the horse.

 

A variety of shoe materials and styles are available to meet the specific needs of each horse based on discipline, workload, and hoof condition. Careful selection of the proper shoe helps improve comfort, support, and overall performance.

 

To maintain proper hoof balance and prevent excessive movement or loosening of the shoes, horses wearing nail-on shoes should remain on a regular farrier schedule of no more than 6 -8 weeks

 

 

 

 

 

Hoof care clinics are designed to provide horse owners with practical elementary knowledge and hands-on experience to better understand and maintain their horse’s hoof health. These educational sessions focus on the fundamentals of hoof care, helping owners recognize normal hoof structure, identify potential problems early, and safely handle routine hoof-related situations.

The clinic begins with a review of basic hoof and lower limb anatomy, including the bones, tendons, ligaments, and the external structures of the hoof, along with their function and importance. Participants will also learn about common hoof conditions and diseases, why they develop, and the appropriate methods for prevention and treatment. Additional instruction covers hoof function, hoof development, and the different types of horseshoes available based on a horse’s individual needs and workload.

A hands-on portion allows participants to practice essential skills in a safe and controlled environment. This includes learning how to properly pick up a horse’s foot, safely handle the leg, apply a poultice, wrap a hoof, and remove a loose or damaged shoe when necessary. These practical skills are intended to give horse owners greater confidence in daily hoof care and emergency situations.

 A calm, well-mannered horse will be provided by the hosting facility. For safety, all participants taking part in the hands-on portion are required to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.

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